[ Post a Response | Ask Cheryl Carlson ]
Posted by Rachel Phelan
on 10/21/2009, 7:11 pm, in reply to "Re: Protection Dog & Therapy Dog"
71.72.35.4
Ok - So I now I understand the part about the handler's reaction better. Let's talk about the body language of the decoy or attacker vs. that of a mentally challenged individual - for the sake of discussion, I will use hands raised and running toward the handler as the example. The first scenario: Attacker, with malicious intent is running toward the handler, with hands raised, handler displays alarm and fear, dog alerts, dog defends handler (Keep in mind that I am super duper green, so I may use some terminology incorrectly). The second scenario: Mentally challenged individual, with NO malicious intent is running toward the handler with hands raised - Handler is not alarmed. AT THIS POINT - how does the dog know the difference between attacker & non-threatening patient? Is it the result of the handler's reaction or the approaching person's energy or a combination of the two? How would the body language of the attacker & the mental patient differ, given the fact that they are seemingly exhibiting the same (hands raised, running toward handler)? Can't wait to hear the answer! Have a great evening! 
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